English tourists find themselves at a remote Carpathian castle against locals’ advice. Brisk direct sequel to Hammer’s 1958 Dracula, without Cushing this time, but instead using bits of the Stoker (like the Renfield subplot) not co-opted first time. Some effective direction and visual imagery, plus sly humour from Philip Latham as manservant Klove.
Here’s the trailer.
An Ohio family is linked in different ways with a series of tragedies and crimes. Splendid adaptation of the Donald Ray Pollock novel; a brooding back country gothic noir meditating on faith and violence. Not for everyone, but there’s strong work from all concerned here. Recommended.
Here’s the trailer.
A condemned nobleman scientist confesses his experiments in human reanimation. Sensational in its time, this first Hammer gothic literature adaptation not only offers a template for two decades of productions, but still works in dramatic and genre terms, with direction, lead performance, and art direction all standouts.
An ancient vampire is resurrected; he vows to restore the family fortunes. Gothic comedy-horror revival of the 60s TV series. Initially very funny, but soon collapses as there’s not much story, and the film runs out of culture-clash gags. Looks great, though. Minor Burton, alas.
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